Based in Paris, the capital of France, and situated at the heart of a vulnerable and densely populated metropolitan area with a population of 12 million, the Prefecture de Police’s task is to prevent and take action against a myriad number of threats: crime, public disturbances, natural and technological disasters, health risks and terrorism.

It also issues administrative documents, ensures the peacefull use of roads and public spaces and regulates traffic.

It carries out complex technical work through its Forensic Science Institute, Psychiatric Centre and Central Laboratory. Its other spheres of jurisdiction include relatively unrecognised areas such as lost property, veterinary services, the police’s “17” emergency line, the Paris fire service, the river police, support for homeless people, etc.